Applesauce Pancakes
There’s something incredibly comforting about a stack of warm pancakes, especially when they’re made with the sweetness of fresh applesauce. I still remember the first time I tried making Applesauce Pancakes with my grandmother on a chilly fall morning. The aroma of cinnamon filled the kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. Pancakes always had a special place in our family traditions, and adding applesauce was a delightful twist that brought a burst of flavor and moisture to the fluffy stack. Now, every time I whip them up, I’m transported back to those cozy mornings. It’s a simple recipe, yet it holds so many memories, and I love sharing it with friends and family.
Recipe Snapshot
15 mins
5 mins
10 mins
Medium
180 kcal
4 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
6 g
Skillet, Blender, Frying Pan, Whisk
The Appeal of This Applesauce Pancakes
Deliciously Moist
One of the best things about Applesauce Pancakes is their incredible moisture. The addition of unsweetened applesauce not only keeps the pancakes tender but also adds a natural sweetness that means you can use less sugar. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a healthier treat without sacrificing flavor.
Perfect for Fall
There’s no better time to enjoy these pancakes than during fall. The spices like cinnamon infuse the batter with warm, cozy flavors that are reminiscent of harvest season. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, these pancakes celebrate everything we love about the season.
Kids Love Them
If you have little ones running around, they’ll adore Applesauce Pancakes. The sweet and fruity flavor is sure to entice even the pickiest eaters. Plus, they’re a fun way to introduce kids to cooking—let them help mix the batter or pour it onto the skillet!
Customizable
This recipe is versatile, allowing you to add your favorite mix-ins. Throw in some chopped nuts or even a handful of chocolate chips for a special treat! You can easily adjust the recipe to accommodate whatever flavors you’re craving, making it a family favorite that keeps everyone happy.
Quick and Easy
One of the main reasons I love making Applesauce Pancakes is how quick and easy they are to whip up. You can have a delicious breakfast ready in just a few minutes! This is perfect for busy mornings when you want something warm and satisfying without the hassle.
Great for Meal Prep
These pancakes also freeze beautifully. Make a big batch, and you’ll have ready-to-eat breakfasts for days! Simply reheat them in the toaster or microwave, and you’ll have a wholesome meal in no time.
Shopping List for Applesauce Pancakes

When it comes to making Applesauce Pancakes, the ingredients are simple yet cohesive, bringing together the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role in creating fluffy and delicious pancakes. The harmony of sweet applesauce, warm spices, and basic pantry staples makes this a go-to recipe for a delightful breakfast.
- 2 cups Flour: The base of the pancakes, providing structure and fluffiness. All-purpose flour works best for a light texture.
- 4 teaspoons Baking Powder: This leavening agent ensures your pancakes rise beautifully, creating that soft, pillowy texture.
- 1/4 cup Brown Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor that complements the spices.
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon: This warm spice elevates the flavor profile, giving the pancakes a comforting aroma reminiscent of fall.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the other flavors, balancing the sweetness and bringing everything together.
- 1 cup Milk or Buttermilk: This adds moisture to the batter. Buttermilk will give a tangy flavor and extra richness.
- 1 cup Applesauce, Unsweetened: The secret ingredient that keeps your pancakes moist while adding a natural sweetness.
- 1 large Egg: Binds the ingredients together and helps the pancakes rise, resulting in a tender texture.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla: Adds depth and a lovely aromatic flavor to the pancakes.
Step by Step Instructions for Applesauce Pancakes

Making Applesauce Pancakes is a straightforward process that can be done in just a few easy steps. You’ll love how the batter comes together quickly and cooks up beautifully in the skillet. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
- To start, grab a large bowl and add 2 cups of flour, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 4 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they’re well combined. This step is crucial because it ensures even distribution of the leavening agent, leading to perfectly fluffy pancakes.
- Next, it’s time to mix the wet ingredients. In the bowl containing your dry ingredients, add 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, and 1 large egg. Use a whisk to blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. It’s perfectly fine if a few small lumps remain; they’ll cook out during the process.
- Allow the batter to sit for a couple of minutes while you heat the skillet. This resting period is essential as it allows the batter to thicken slightly, contributing to the pancakes’ texture.
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. If you have a griddle, you can use that according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure the surface is hot enough to cook the pancakes evenly.
- Once heated, lightly spray the skillet or griddle with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will help you achieve a golden-brown exterior on your pancakes.
- Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. You should see bubbles forming on the surface after a minute or so. This is a sign they’re ready to flip.
- Carefully flip the pancakes using a spatula and cook the opposite side until it turns golden brown. If the pancakes are browning too quickly, adjust the heat to avoid burning them. You want to achieve a beautiful golden color on both sides.
- Once cooked, remove the pancakes from the skillet and serve them warm. They are delightful on their own or topped with sautéed apples for a bit of extra fruitiness. Enjoy every bite!
Things Worth Knowing
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes.
- Adjust Heat as Needed: If your pancakes are cooking too quickly, lower the heat. This ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
- Variations: Feel free to customize your pancakes by adding your favorite mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or even different spices.
- Test for Doneness: Pancakes are done when they’re golden brown and spring back slightly when pressed. Using a toothpick can also help check the center.
Helpful Hints

Here are some extra tips to ensure your Applesauce Pancakes turn out perfectly every time. These hints will help with storage, serving suggestions, and more.
- Storage: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick breakfast.
- Freezing: You can freeze pancakes by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and then transferring them to a freezer bag once frozen. Simply reheat directly from the freezer.
- Pairing: Serve with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a drizzle of maple syrup for a delightful breakfast or brunch option.
- Thickening the Batter: If the batter seems too thin, let it rest a bit longer to thicken before cooking.
- Flavor Boost: Experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist on the traditional flavor.
What Goes Well With This Applesauce Pancakes
Serving Applesauce Pancakes is all about creating a cozy atmosphere and pairing them with delightful accompaniments. Here are some fantastic suggestions:
- Fresh Fruits: Sliced bananas, berries, or even sautéed apples make for a refreshing side that complements the pancakes beautifully.
- Yogurt: A dollop of plain or flavored yogurt adds a creamy texture and pairs well with the sweetness of the pancakes.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzling pure maple syrup over your pancakes brings a classic touch that enhances the entire breakfast experience.
- Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can be sprinkled on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Occasions: These pancakes are perfect for weekend brunches, holiday breakfasts, or even a quick weekday meal.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in the fridge or freeze them for future breakfasts. They reheat well and retain their delicious flavor.
- Seasonal Pairing: During fall, serve with spiced apple compote or cinnamon whipped cream to enhance the seasonal theme.
FAQ
Conclusion
Applesauce Pancakes bring warmth, flavor, and fun to any breakfast table. They’re not just pancakes; they’re a cherished recipe that’s easy to make and share. I encourage you to try making these pancakes this weekend. They’re sure to become a family favorite!

Applesauce Pancakes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- To start, grab a large bowl and add 2 cups of flour, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 4 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they’re well combined. This step is crucial because it ensures even distribution of the leavening agent, leading to perfectly fluffy pancakes.
- Next, it’s time to mix the wet ingredients. In the bowl containing your dry ingredients, add 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, and 1 large egg. Use a whisk to blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. It’s perfectly fine if a few small lumps remain; they’ll cook out during the process.
- Allow the batter to sit for a couple of minutes while you heat the skillet. This resting period is essential as it allows the batter to thicken slightly, contributing to the pancakes’ texture.
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. If you have a griddle, you can use that according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure the surface is hot enough to cook the pancakes evenly.
- Once heated, lightly spray the skillet or griddle with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will help you achieve a golden-brown exterior on your pancakes.
- Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. You should see bubbles forming on the surface after a minute or so. This is a sign they’re ready to flip.
- Carefully flip the pancakes using a spatula and cook the opposite side until it turns golden brown. If the pancakes are browning too quickly, adjust the heat to avoid burning them. You want to achieve a beautiful golden color on both sides.
- Once cooked, remove the pancakes from the skillet and serve them warm. They are delightful on their own or topped with sautéed apples for a bit of extra fruitiness. Enjoy every bite!


